Waiting For An Alibi – Thin Lizzy

Learn to master the iconic guitar work of Thin Lizzy with our detailed note-for-note guitar lesson for “Waiting For An Alibi.” This classic track, released in 1979 on the Black Rose: A Rock Legend album, features some of the most engaging dual guitar work in rock history. Our lesson at LickLibrary breaks down every riff, lick, and solo with expert instruction, making it the perfect resource for players looking to improve their musicality, timing, and expressive playing. Richard Shaw breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitarists: Scott Gorham and Gary Moore

“Waiting For An Alibi” showcases the formidable guitar partnership of Scott Gorham and Gary Moore. Gorham’s smooth, melodic approach blended perfectly with Moore’s fiery, blues-based style, creating the signature twin guitar sound that became synonymous with Thin Lizzy. Gary Moore brought exceptional technical skill and emotional depth to the band, and his playing on this track highlights both speed and soul — making him a revered influence for countless guitarists around the world.

Their interplay on this song exemplifies how two contrasting styles can come together to create unforgettable rock guitar arrangements.

Song Breakdown and Guitar Techniques

Intro Riff and Verse Rhythms

The song kicks off with a driving and rhythmic guitar riff built on tight chord work and punchy phrasing. The verse sections continue with a solid foundation of power chord-based rhythm playing, delivering both groove and energy.

Benefit to the viewer: Learning the intro and verse parts will help develop precise right-hand control and timing, essential skills for rhythm guitarists in any style of rock music.

Melodic Embellishments

Throughout the verses, the guitar subtly weaves in expressive melodic phrases. These add depth and nuance, using slides, bends, and articulations to enhance the vocal lines without overpowering them.

Benefit to the viewer: These phrases are ideal for improving your expressive playing and learning how to complement a song’s arrangement tastefully.

Chorus Harmonies

The chorus features Thin Lizzy’s trademark dual-guitar harmonies. These harmonised lead lines are musically rich and melodic, often played in thirds or sixths, and contribute to the soaring nature of the song.

Benefit to the viewer: Playing harmonised parts builds your understanding of intervals, timing, and synchronisation — great for ensemble work or layering parts in your own compositions.

Gary Moore’s Guitar Solo

The solo in “Waiting For An Alibi” is a standout moment, packed with phrasing brilliance, speed, and emotional delivery. It’s a perfect example of Moore’s signature mix of melodic sensibility and technical prowess.

Benefit to the viewer: This solo offers a chance to improve finger strength, phrasing control, and fluency across the fretboard. You'll develop both musical expression and technical refinement through mastering its passages.

Outro and Thematic Repetition

The outro revisits earlier motifs, reinforcing the song’s melodic identity. The dual leads return with renewed intensity, providing a satisfying and powerful conclusion.

Benefit to the viewer: Revisiting and reinforcing themes across a song teaches musical consistency and helps embed phrasing into your muscle memory for more natural playing.

Why This Lesson Is Essential for Rock Guitarists

“Waiting For An Alibi” is not just another rock song — it’s a showcase of phrasing, technique, harmony, and tasteful guitar work. Whether you’re a lead or rhythm player, this lesson offers a comprehensive challenge that sharpens your skill set while keeping things musical and fun. From tight riffing to soaring leads, you’ll gain practical tools to take your playing to the next level.

Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Trills
• Pull-offs
• Hammer-ons
• Slides
• Power Chords
• Palm-Muting
• String Bending
• Bluesy Bends
• Dual Guitar Harmonies

Take your rock playing to new heights and explore the classic tones of Thin Lizzy with LickLibrary’s in-depth lesson for “Waiting For An Alibi.” Every section is explained clearly, ensuring you come away with improved technique, musical insight, and a rock-solid foundation in one of the genre’s most celebrated songs.